The role of circular RNA in ovarian follicle development and fertility
Official title: Circular RNA Role in Ovarian Follicular Development and Fertility
Funded at University of Kansas Medical Center · NIH-10811437 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special type of RNA called circular RNA might affect the growth of ovarian follicles and fertility in women, especially during the important time when hormones trigger ovulation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kansas Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kansas City, United States) |
| Project start | August 22, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $232,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HD110932-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10811437 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women who are experiencing infertility or difficulty conceiving, particularly those with hormonal imbalances.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not seeking to conceive or who have already been diagnosed with conditions that are not related to ovarian function may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how circular RNA (circRNA) influences the development of ovarian follicles and fertility in women. It focuses on the changes that occur in ovarian follicles following the surge of luteinizing hormone, which is crucial for ovulation. By examining the expression and function of circRNA in ovarian granulosa cells, the study aims to uncover their potential roles in regulating key processes such as oocyte maturation and ovulation. The research employs advanced RNA sequencing techniques to analyze the changes in circRNA levels before and after the luteinizing hormone surge.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into fertility issues and potential treatments for women experiencing difficulty conceiving.
How similar studies have gone: While the role of circRNA in other biological processes has been studied, this specific investigation into circRNA's role in ovarian follicular development is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kansas Medical Center
Kansas City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Christenson, Lane K. — University of Kansas Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Christenson, Lane K.
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.